[For people in their 60s] Western songs that get the crowd going at karaoke: Ranking [2025]

He’s the Greatest DancerSISTER SLEDGE43rank/position

Sister Sledge – He’s the Greatest Dancer (1979)

This track is also famous as the original sample for Will Smith’s “Gettin’ Jiggy wit It.” It’s a 1979 hit by the female vocal group Sister Sledge.

The backing guitar is irresistibly funky.

The late ’70s were the peak of disco songs, no doubt! Bring back those days!

The StrangerBilly Joel44rank/position

Billy Joel – The Stranger (Live 1977)

A hit number released in 1977.

It has the kind of urban vibe you’d expect from New York–born Billy Joel.

Among Billy Joel’s songs, this one leans pretty heavily toward rock, and if you can pull it off, you’ll definitely look cool! Don’t forget to nail that stylish whistling in the intro, too.

Light My FireThe Doors45rank/position

The Doors – Light My Fire ( HQ Official Video )

A representative number released in 1967 by the American band The Doors.

The organ in the intro is highly memorable.

In Japan, the song is known as “Light My Fire.” It has been covered by numerous artists, reflecting its enduring popularity.

The vocalist, Jim Morrison, is famous for his rebellious persona, but beyond his band activities he also published several poetry collections and is highly regarded as a poet.

MOVE OVERJanis Joplin46rank/position

MOVE OVER by Janis Joplin

A signature song by Janis Joplin, a blues-rock singer who epitomized the 1960s.

She passed away young at 27, yet she remains an inspiration to female vocalists.

Perhaps no one like her will ever appear again.

This is one song I’d love for you—who once performed in a band—to sing.

A Whiter Shade Of PaleProcol Harum47rank/position

[HD] Procol Harum – A Whiter Shade Of Pale

A 1967 smash hit by the British group Procol Harum.

The Japanese title is “Aoi Kage” (A Whiter Shade of Pale).

The Bach-like organ is highly striking and shapes the overall image of the piece.

Around 1990, this number was used in a commercial for the Nissan Silvia.

It’s a very classical and cool song—one you’ll want to nail the English pronunciation for and sing perfectly.

JoJoBoz Scaggs48rank/position

Boz Scaggs – JoJo (Official Video)

A 1980 number by Boz Scaggs, the suave icon of the AOR scene.

It was produced by the one and only David Foster.

It’s a classic and a staple of AOR.

Karaoke is fine, but this is the kind of song that makes you want to form a band and play it! Let’s keep it cool and classy!

Poupée de cire, poupée de sonFrance Gall49rank/position

Dreaming Chanson Doll — Poupée de cire, poupée de son

Japanese title: “Yumemiru Chanson Ningyo” (literally, “Dreaming Chanson Doll”).

A French pop song written and composed by Serge Gainsbourg.

It was also a hit in Japan and has been covered by numerous singers.

With its characteristically cute French-pop melody, it’s a pleasant song to sing.